Brain Metastases

Brain Metastases

Brain Metastases is commonly treated with radiation therapy. The technology we use and the number of treatments depends on how advanced the cancer is (stage) and what type of symptoms you have (if any).

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with brain metastasis, click the link below to request a consultation with a Coastal Radiation Oncologist.

Typical Treatments

For information about the types of technology available through Coastal Radiation Oncology

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What To Expect

Once your doctors have determined that radiation therapy may be part of the treatment plan for your Brain Metastases, there will be a few steps to allow the radiation oncology team to begin treatment safely.

These include:

- CT simulation
- Treatment plan design (dosimetry)

- Verification

- Start of daily treatments

- Weekly doctor visits with your radiation oncologist

Side Effects

Short term:

Many people do not develop significant side effects during radiation treatment. If you are considering radiation therapy as part of your cancer treatment, it is important to know what side effects are possible so you can make a good decision about the treatment that is right for you.

More likely

Tiredness
Temporary increase in headaches

Less likely

Loss of hair
Scalp redness/soreness
Nausea/vomiting

Long term:

After the short-term side effects of radiation therapy resolve, others may become noticeable months or years later.

More likely

Changes in thinking patterns and decreased ability to concentrate
Decrease in hearing

Less likely

Cataracts
Nausea/vomiting
Dry mouth
Loss of appetite
Abnormal hormone levels

More Information

For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases, please visit the following websites:

RT Answers
https://www.rtanswers.org/Cancer-Types/Brain-Metastases

American Cancer Society

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/brain-spinal-cord-tumors-adults.html

Cancer.Net
https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/brain-tumor